Create the Tropical Landscape Effect, Now that you have a foundation, or backdrop, it is time to add the tropical effect plants to turn that normal backyard or swimming pool landscape into your own tropical paradise. Here, you’ll use true tropical plants that have to be treated as annuals in your area, unless you are willing to go to great lengths to protect them from winter chill. There are many plants that are tropical or sub-tropical that, with a little protection, will come back from roots each spring (i.e. bananas, elephant ears). Then, there are the interesting, tropical looking plants that may have no problems at all with winter weather.

Uncomplicated Systems: When it comes time for you to select your backyard lighting system, you should be careful to select lighting fixtures that are easy to install. You don’t want systems that have complicated electrical cables and connections as you want to compliment your landscape and not have to reinvent everything to do so. Automated Timers: A good idea is to choose an outdoor lighting system that has an automated timer integrated into them. This way the timers regulate the duration and periods that the lights will be on and off, which makes it easier and convenient. You can even get solar powered lighting systems, which will absorb energy from the sun during the day so that they illuminate at night for your safety and enjoyment. This will also save you money on utilities. Plan Your System: Be sure to plan out your backyard lighting system. There are so many systems to choose from and unique fixtures you can add to your décor, you should make a plan for your backyard lighting so you don’t overspend or get fixtures that don’t fit well with your decorating scheme.

Outdoor fire pits are another form of backyard fireplaces. Some people also call these fire bowls. The fire pit is the most portable of all of the backyard fireplaces and also takes up the least amount of space. They are ventless and do not have chimneys. Fire pits can be bowls, pots and pits that hold the fire within its boundaries. You may find some fire pits that come with wheels for easier portability. Without having a chimney to force the smoke away from your guests, it could be a little smokier than the other backyard fireplaces. Fire rings are also sometime called fire pits. Fire rings are similar to what you find in a campground. They are simply containment areas for the backyard fire. These are the least expensive of all the backyard fireplaces. You can easily place a grill over the top for cooking.